On July 15, 23 naturalists visited the yet-to-be-opened Pisgah View State Park in Hominy Valley – the first state park in Buncombe County.  We were led in our exploration by Jamie Cameron, the park ranger, who gave us an overview of the park and then led the group on trails up the mountain and to a nearby bog.   The park opening is slated for 2025, but Jamie thought that it might take another year or two to conform to requirements for state parks.

The Park was formerly  the “Pisgah View Ranch” which offered horseback riding, rental cabins, swimming pool, a tennis court, and other amenities. The biggest challenge for the 1,300 acre park is what to do with the numerous structures there, many of which are in a state of disrepair since the former facility closed. Jamie said there are volunteer opportunities to help in preparing the park for opening. We will let our members know once we have that information.

On Tuesday March 26, 8 intrepid hikers braved the weather to view the spring ephemerals at Twin Bridges led by Randy Richardson.  The following Thursday, 17 naturalists followed the wildflower path to Melrose Falls accompanied by Paul Fredrickson.  On the trek we saw lots of blooming Trillium, Purple Phacilia, Blue Cohosh, Violets of a few varieties, Yellow Mandarin and the stunning Large-flowered Bellwort.